THE leaked dossier that sent shockwaves through Scottish political circles last week could and should have marked a welcome shift in the tone of the independence debate.

For too long the SNP had insisted on painting a picture of a perfect world after a break-up of the UK.

That position was blown away by Finance Secretary John Swinney’s own private – and astute – analysis of the problems the economy faces if Scots vote Yes next year.

The leaking of the report was a perfect opportunity for the Yes campaign to start putting forward proper detail on how Scotland will be better off independent.

Swinney’s comments yesterday about a “massive oil boom” show this opportunity has been wasted. Instead, the SNP appear content to retreat back to fantasy politics with every problem solved by independence.

That is a great shame – and daft, as Swinney’s already let the cat out the bag.

A Game plan

YESTERDAY marked 500 days until the start of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow next year.

In the Record today, Green MSP Alison Johnstone describes the Games as a massive opportunity.

If they leave a permanent legacy of a healthier, fitter Scotland, we’ll all be better off.